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Microplastics in Tampa Bay, Florida: Abundance and variability in estuarine waters and sediments
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This study provided the first systematic measurements of microplastic abundance and distribution in Tampa Bay, Florida, finding microplastics in both surface water and sediments throughout the estuary, with higher concentrations near urban areas. The data establish baseline contamination levels for one of Florida's largest estuaries and identify stormwater and wastewater as key sources.
This study provides the first measurement of microplastic abundance and distribution in surface waters and sediments in Tampa Bay, FL. Microplastic concentrations in discrete water samples ranged from 0.25 to 7.0 particles/L with an average of 0.94 (±0.52) particles/L. Samples taken with a 330 μm plankton net had 1.2-18.1 particles/m with an average of 4.5 (±2.3) particles/m. Discrete samples were 200 times higher than net samples, suggesting substantial losses or undersampling with the net. For both discrete and plankton tow samples, there were no significant differences in concentrations between stations or regions. Intense rainfall events in the summer always preceded samples with substantially higher counts. Most (>75%) microplastics were fibers. Using an average value of 1 particle/L, Tampa Bay contains ~4 billion microplastic particles. Surface sediments had an average of 280 (±290) particles/kg, ranging from 30 to 790 particles/kg. Highest concentrations of microplastics were found in sediments close to industrial sources; lowest values in Middle and Lower Tampa Bay are consistent with shorter residence times.
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Spatial and Temporal Levels of Microplastics in Tampa Bay Surface Waters
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Researchers collected microplastics from 20 sites across Tampa Bay, Florida, finding that concentrations vary with land use, freshwater input, and seasonal precipitation. The study identifies wastewater treatment plant discharge and stormwater runoff from urban areas as key drivers of microplastic contamination in this major estuarine system.
Seasonal and spatial variations in microplastics abundances in St. Andrew Bay, Florida
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Researchers found significant seasonal and spatial variations in microplastic abundances in coastal sediments of St. Andrew Bay, Florida, with wastewater treatment plant effluent identified as a major contributor to the approximately 25% of marine microplastics originating from such facilities.
Seasonal and spatial distributions of microplastics in st. Andrew bay, florida, USA
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Researchers monitored microplastic abundance at multiple sites in St. Andrew Bay, Florida, over six consecutive seasons, finding the highest concentrations near wastewater treatment plant outflows and strong seasonal variation. The dominance of polypropylene and polyethylene fragments suggests local land-based sources, with treatment plant effluent identified as a significant local input.
Ecosystem Effects and Magnitude of Microplastics Pollution in St. Andrew Bay, Florida
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This study quantified microplastic pollution in St. Andrew Bay, Florida, examining inputs from wastewater treatment plants and other coastal sources. The research documented ongoing daily microplastic deposition into this coastal system and characterized its sources and spatial distribution.
Influence of wastewater treatment plants and water input sources on size, shape, and polymer distributions of microplastics in St. Andrew Bay, Florida, USA
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Researchers found that wastewater treatment plant outflows in St. Andrew Bay, Florida significantly influence the size, shape, and polymer composition of microplastics, with smaller polypropylene fragments dominating near discharge points.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.